The TRK-9 was introduced in 1939, together with the TT-5, TRK-5, and
TRK-12. This set is a direct view 9 inch receiver, with an AM/SW
radio receiver. The cabinet is in fair condition, with some veneer
missing. The chassis are in good condition, with only a small amount
of rust. It now displays a crisp, clear picture, probably the best of
any pre-1945 set we have restored.

While restoring this set we noticed a service tag with the name John
McDermott on it. We knew the set originally came from Newburgh, New York,
where RCA conducted a marketing test of its TV sets in 1939. Newburgh was
considered ideal, since it was close to New York, but isolated from that
market. RCA did extensive advertising, lowered
prices and offered installment purchase plans in an attempt to sell sets.

As part of the campaign, RCA published a brochure with testimonials for their sets. One of the people quoted
was John McDermott. This TRK-9 was in McDermott's Bar in downtown
Newburgh, then in the McDermott's home, and finally in a shed behind the
house, where it was discovered by a collector in the 1980s.

The TRK-9 has a socket on the rear to allow connection of an external
phonograph, such as the RCA model R-100.

Rear view of the set. On top is the CRT, then the radio chassis,
television chassis, and on the bottom left the radio power supply.
The TV power supply chassis is on the bottom right.